The word "perbends" refers to a type of allowance or income received by certain members of the clergy. The correct spelling of this word is "prebends" /ˈprɛbəndz/. The "pre-" prefix comes from the Latin word "praebenda," meaning "allowance." The "b" is pronounced, and the "e" is a schwa sound /ə/. The "nd" at the end of the word indicates a plural noun. Maintaining proper spelling is important to ensure clear communication and avoid confusion or errors.
Perbends refers to a term typically used in the context of a medieval church or cathedral, particularly in England and other parts of Western Europe. In the ecclesiastical hierarchy, perbends were specific shares or portions of the revenue generated by a cathedral or monastery that were assigned to individual canons or members of the clergy.
Derived from the Latin term praebendae, meaning "allowance" or "income," perbends were granted as a form of financial compensation to clergy members serving in religious institutions. These shares acted as a means of sustenance and support for the canons while they fulfilled their religious duties.
The allocation of perbends varied according to factors such as seniority, position, or previous contributions to the church. The amount of income received could be substantial, especially for higher-ranking clergymen. Perbends were frequently granted in the form of prebends, which were revenues derived from land or other sources of income connected to the church's possessions.
The distribution and management of perbends were overseen by the cathedral chapter, a body of senior clergymen responsible for the administration of the religious institution. The system of perbends played a significant role in the financial organization of cathedrals and monasteries during the medieval period.
While perbends are not commonly found in modern ecclesiastical structures, the term persists as a historical reference to the financial arrangements and compensations given to clergymen in medieval religious institutions.
Stones carried through the whole thickness of a wall—see perpender.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.